Sealable Wind Turbine for Urban Energy Harvesting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wind energy generation is not well-suited for urban environments due to unpredictable wind patterns and mismatch between wind speed and energy demand, with stronger winds occurring during off-peak usage periods.
Innovation Solution
A wind turbine system designed to harness wind energy from moving railroad and subway cars, equipped with sensors to detect wind and water, automatically opening and closing intake and exit vents to maximize energy capture during peak usage times while withstanding adverse weather conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conventional wind turbine is used in urban environments, then it can generate wind energy, but it cannot effectively harness wind energy due to unpredictable wind patterns and mismatch between wind speed and energy demand
Solution Approach 1:
The wind turbine incorporates movable intake and exit portals that can dynamically open and close based on detected wind conditions. This dynamic adjustment allows the turbine to capture wind energy when winds are strong (such as during winter and nighttime) while protecting internal components when winds are weak or conditions are adverse, thereby resolving the mismatch between unpredictable wind patterns and reliable energy generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses sensors to detect wind speed and direction in advance, allowing the intake and exit portals to open before strong winds arrive. This preliminary action ensures the turbine is ready to capture wind energy at the optimal moment, maximizing productivity during periods of strong wind while protecting against damage during adverse conditions.
2Productivity
If the wind turbine operates continuously to maximize energy capture, then energy generation increases, but damage from adverse weather conditions (rain, snow, ice) increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wind turbine features dynamically controllable intake and exit portals that open only when wind conditions are favorable for energy generation. When adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, or ice are detected, the portals close to protect internal components from damage. This dynamic operation allows the turbine to maximize energy generation during suitable conditions while minimizing exposure to harmful factors during adverse weather.
3Productivity
If the intake portal remains open to capture wind energy, then energy conversion is maximized, but water ingress and component damage occur
Solution Approach 1:
The intake portal is equipped with a plunger mechanism that can rapidly close the portal when water or adverse conditions are detected. This dynamic closure protects internal components from water ingress while allowing the portal to remain open during favorable wind conditions for maximum energy conversion. The exit portals similarly open and close based on wind direction and speed, ensuring energy capture while preventing water damage.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively harvests wind energy in urban areas at times of maximal demand, ensuring optimal energy conversion and extending turbine lifespan by protecting components from water and low-wind conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a wind sensor, and the intake portal and at least one sealable exit vent are opened upon detection by the wind sensor of wind above a pre-designated threshold
Implementation Method 2
a water sensor wherein, upon detection of water above a pre-designated threshold (of nearness or volume), the plunger seals the intake portal and at least one sealable exit vent is sealed
Implementation Method 3
a plunger extending in a direction of said elongated outer side of the housing, movable in a lateral direction to seal the intake portal
Implementation Method 4
A blade/rotary mechanism may be situated between the plunger and outer housing (in the path of the air between the intake opening and exit vent or vents)
Data Source
AI summary
A cylindrical wind-turbine has an intake opening set in a known direction of oncoming wind (such as towards the direction of an expected oncoming train). A central plunger acts as a valve to regulate airflow, and may seal the intake opening. Exit valves are situated near the rear of the device and/or at the rear in embodiments of the disclosed technology. The intake opening and exit valves may be opened or closed depending on readings from wind and water sensors. Generally speaking, when there is sufficient wind and low threat of water, the openings and valves are open, collecting wind energy. When there is a lack of wind or presence of water, the openings and valves are sealed to protect the interior components of the device from the elements and unnecessary wear and tear, prolonging the life of the device.